5 States With The Highest Gas Tax in America

As RVers, we’re always keeping an eye on gas prices, especially with those long hauls across the country. But while most of us focus on the fluctuating price per gallon, there’s another factor that quietly drains our wallets—state gas taxes.

These hidden fees can significantly impact your overall fuel cost, varying widely from state to state.

So, let’s break down which states have the highest gas taxes, and how it might affect your travel budget.

1. California Gas Tax

It probably won’t surprise anyone that the Golden State tops the list with the highest gas tax in the nation.

As of 2024, Californians are paying a whopping 62.47 cents per gallon in state taxes.

California’s high gas taxes are partly due to its aggressive environmental regulations and infrastructure projects. For RVers, this means budgeting a little extra when cruising along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.

2. Pennsylvania Gas Tax

The Keystone State comes in second with a gas tax of 58.7 cents per gallon.

Pennsylvania’s gas taxes help fund the state’s massive road maintenance projects, especially those pothole-ridden highways that seem to appear every winter. If you’re planning to explore the Allegheny National Forest or visit the historic sites in Philadelphia, be prepared for a higher fuel bill.

3. Illinois Gas Tax

Illinois isn’t far behind, with a state gas tax of 53.62 cents per gallon.

The Prairie State has been steadily increasing its gas tax to keep up with infrastructure needs, especially in the Chicago area.

Whether you’re road-tripping through the farmlands or heading to the Windy City, this is another state where you’ll feel the pinch at the pump.

4. Washington Gas Tax

In Washington State, drivers are paying 49.4 cents per gallon in state gas taxes. Much of this revenue goes towards maintaining the state’s extensive network of highways and bridges.

While the scenic views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound might be worth the cost, it’s another spot where your fuel expenses might surprise you.

5. New Jersey Gas Tax

Rounding out the top five, New Jersey has a state gas tax of 41.4 cents per gallon.

Despite its small size, New Jersey’s gas tax is one of the highest due to its densely populated areas and extensive roadways.

Whether you’re crossing the Garden State Parkway or heading down to the Jersey Shore, be ready for slightly higher fuel costs.

How These Gas Taxes Add Up

When you consider that the average state gas tax in the U.S. is around 31.67 cents per gallon, it’s clear that these states are well above the norm.

For RVers, who often cover thousands of miles in a single trip, these extra costs can add up quickly. Depending on the size of your rig and how much you travel, you could be looking at hundreds of dollars more each year in fuel expenses.

What Can You Do?

If you’re planning a trip through these high-tax states, here are a few tips to save on fuel:

Plan Your Routes Wisely: Avoid unnecessary detours and try to stick to the most fuel-efficient routes.
Use Gas Apps: Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest fuel prices in your area.
Fuel Up Strategically: Consider filling up in neighboring states with lower gas taxes before crossing into a high-tax area.
Travel Light: Reduce your load to improve fuel efficiency—every little bit helps when you’re trying to stretch your fuel dollars.

While gas taxes might seem like just another line on the receipt, they’re a crucial part of what you’re paying at the pump.

By staying informed and planning ahead, you can keep your road trip costs as low as possible, even when traveling through states with the highest gas taxes.